Request is Not Authenticated in Income Tax Portal: Reasons and Solutions

The due date for filing income-tax returns (ITR) for taxpayers who are not covered by tax audit provisions is fast approaching. There is only a handful of days left for filing of the ITRs. The amount of rush that has flocked on the Income Tax portal is unprecedented and the same rush is causing many glitches and various issues on the portal due to heavy rush.

IT Authorities are constantly active on various platforms to help the taxpayers to solve the errors and glitches encountered. Let’s discuss one of the issues faced by many taxpayers while using the IT portal.

Issue of Request Not Authenticated

Many taxpayers encounter the "Request is not authenticated" error when attempting to log in to file their ITRs on the IT Portal. Despite entering the correct login credentials, the site displays this error message, preventing them from proceeding. The widespread occurrence of this issue is evident from the numerous complaints by taxpayers and professionals on various social media platforms.

Probable Reasons for the Error

1. Server Overload: Server over capacity due to heavy rush is one of the reason for this error.
2. Connection Problem: A weak or unstable internet connection can disrupt communication between your device and the portal, leading to authentication errors.
3. Browser Issues: The income tax department itself suggests a few browsers through which the portal's operations can be conducted smoothly. If you are not using one of the recommended browsers, then you may encounter problems.
4. Incorrect Login Details: One genuine problem can be the correctness of the login credentials used on the login page to log into the taxpayer’s account. If you are getting a similar error repeatedly, the details should be re-confirmed.
5. Technical Glitches: There can be a bug or a glitch in the verification of the login credentials by the internal server of the department even if the correct details are entered and thereby restricting the taxpayer from accessing the portal.

Probable Solutions for the Error 

1. Compatible Browser: To avoid any unwanted hassles and errors, you can use a browser from the list of compatible browsers provided by the income tax department.
2. Internet Connectivity: You should ensure that your internet connection is strong and stable. You can consider switching to a wired connection if possible or moving closer to your Wi-Fi router.
3. Incognito Mode: You can try logging in the portal using private/incognito mode. It prevents the browser from using cached data and cookies.
4. Pressing Continue: The most practical solution if you encounter the above error is to press Continue simultaneously 3 times once you get the error message. This method is working for many taxpayers.
5. Trying at Less Peak Time: Another thing that you might do is try logging in at odd hours when the portal rush is less. Hence, you can access the portal without any error.

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